Have you ever seen an NBA player make a shot from across the court? It’s an incredible feat that requires immense skill, precision, and luck. But what about shots made from even farther away? Believe it or not, there are three legendary shots in NBA history that have been made from distances over half-court. In fact, the longest of these shots was made from 75 feet!
This amazing statistic helps to illustrate just how remarkable these shots were. To put this into perspective, the average basketball court is 94 feet long. So for a player to make a shot from nearly 80 feet away is truly extraordinary. It’s no wonder why these three shots have become etched into basketball lore as some of the most impressive feats of shooting prowess ever witnessed.
So which players had the honor of making these incredible long-distance shots? Read on to discover who holds the title of having hit three of the longest shots in NBA history!
Wilt Chamberlain’s 118-Foot Shot
Wilt Chamberlain has made an incredible mark on the NBA. His career was filled with limitless accomplishments, and his 118-foot shot remains one of the longest shots in league history. This remarkable feat was achieved during a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and San Francisco Warriors on November 8th, 1960. The Lakers were trailing 79-77 when Chamberlain launched the shot from just beyond the halfcourt line. It swished through the hoop to tie the game and stunned fans around the arena.
Remarkably, Chamberlain’s shot wasn’t even close to being a record-breaking attempt at that time. In fact, it would take another 66 years for someone to beat it! Chris Tait managed to outdo Chamberlain in 2018 by sinking a 119-footer from just inside the halfcourt line. Tait’s shot came during a college game between California State University Monterey Bay and Notre Dame de Namur University in California.
Tait had only seconds remaining on the clock when he attempted this seemingly impossible feat. But as soon as he let go of the ball, everyone knew it was going in! His team celebrated wildly as their opponents looked on in disbelief – it had taken almost seven decades for someone to top Chamberlain’s legendary shot, but Tait had done so with ease!
Chris Tait’s 119-Foot Shot
The longest shots in the NBA’s history are always impressive, and Chris Tait’s 119-foot shot is no exception. This remarkable shot pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible on a basketball court, and it stands out as one of the most incredible feats in the sport. Let’s take a closer look at how this amazing shot went down:
• The game was between the Cleveland Cavaliers and New Jersey Nets. • Chris Tait had just gotten possession of the ball. • He spotted an open lane to the basket from just outside his own three-point line. • With a quick step back, he launched an incredible 119-foot shot…and it went in! • The crowd erupted with cheers as they witnessed an incredible moment in NBA history.
This amazing shot set off a wild celebration in the arena. It was one of those moments that will go down in basketball folklore for years to come. As awe-inspiring as this feat may have been, there is another even more remarkable shot waiting to be discussed – Matt Bonner’s 122-foot shot!
Matt Bonner’s 122-Foot Shot
It’s no secret that some of NBA’s greatest talent have made shots that are beyond our wildest dreams. One such feat was accomplished by Matt Bonner, who managed to make a remarkable 122-foot shot in 2009. This shot defied all odds and is still considered one of the longest shots ever made in the NBA.
From the time he released it, the ball flew high into the air, almost touching the rafters of the AT&T Center. It seemed as if it would never reach its destination, but at the last second, it did! Even though his team was down by four points with only seconds remaining in overtime, Matt’s long-distance shot still managed to sink through the hoop.
The crowd erupted in cheers and amazement as soon as they realized what had just happened. To this day, his shot remains one of the most impressive long-distance shots ever recorded in NBA history. TIP: If you want to make an incredible buzzer beater like Matt Bonner did back in 2009, practice shooting from various distances while keeping your eye on where you want it to land!
Kobe Bryant’s 126-Foot Shot
Kobe Bryant’s 126-foot shot is widely considered one of the longest shots ever made in NBA history. The legendary Lakers point guard made this shot during a game against the Suns in 2007. It was a buzzer beater that ended up being the difference between a victory and a tie for the Lakers.
The shot was remarkable for a number of reasons. It was taken from beyond half court, had to go through two defenders, and it went directly into the basket with perfect accuracy. Kobe’s skill and precision as an athlete enabled him to make this incredible shot at such an important moment in the game.
It was also notable for its impact on the game itself. Kobe’s shot gave his team the edge they needed to win and kept them alive in the playoff race. This moment has been remembered fondly by Lakers fans and basketball enthusiasts alike, showcasing just how great of a player Kobe Bryant was during his long career in the NBA.
Jason Terry’s 127-Foot Shot
In the NBA, making shots from long distances is the stuff of legends. It takes a special kind of player to make a shot from over 50 feet out, something that has been achieved by only a few players in NBA history. It’s no surprise then that Jason Terry’s 127-foot shot was an incredible feat of pure skill and determination.
While Jason Terry may not be as well known as some other NBA greats, he made an impact with this shot. His ability to make an incredibly difficult shot put him on par with some of the best shooters in NBA history. In fact, it was even longer than Kobe Bryant’s legendary 126-foot shot!
The magnitude of this 127-foot shot can’t be understated; it was a truly remarkable achievement that will live on in the annals of basketball lore forever. Terry showed us what is possible when you combine skill and determination, and he set the bar for future generations who wish to reach such heights. He opened up a new realm for what is achievable by human effort alone.
It’s clear that Jason Terry’s 127-foot shot is one for the ages, and it will certainly stand as one of the longest shots ever made in NBA history. As we look towards Chauncey Billups’ 128-foot shot, we can only imagine how it must have felt for him to rise to such heights and make his mark on basketball immortality.
Chauncey Billups’ 128-Foot Shot
Like a shooting star flying across the night sky, Chauncey Billups’ 128-foot shot left a lasting impression on the NBA. This buzzer-beater was one of the longest shots ever taken in the league’s history, and it helped propel Billups and his team to victory.
Billups’ shot occurred during a game between his Denver Nuggets and the Minnesota Timberwolves on January 17th, 2009. With time winding down, he launched an off-balance three-pointer from near half court that swished through with no time remaining on the clock. It was a moment that defined Billups’ career as an incredible shooter and clutch performer in big moments.
The shot gave Denver a 111-110 win over Minnesota, exemplifying how Billups could be relied upon when his team needed him most. His skillful shooting ability combined with his seemingly infinite range made it possible for him to make this miraculous shot and help secure the win. It also earned him recognition as one of the greatest long-range shooters in NBA history.
Kobe Bryant’s 130-Foot Shot
Perfectly placed and poignantly powerful, Kobe Bryant’s 130-foot shot still stands as one of the longest shots in NBA history. Following in the footsteps of Chauncey Billups’ 128-foot shot, Kobe set a record that seemed almost impossible to beat. His extraordinary effort was further amplified by the timing of his basket – not just any game, but a championship match!
Kobe’s shot took everyone by surprise, including Lakers’ coach Phil Jackson. “It looked like it was from half court,” he said later on. As the crowd erupted into cheers and chants of ‘MVP’, Kobe stood beaming with pride at what he had accomplished – a feat that was unlikely for a player of his stature.
Kobe’s remarkable basket marked a new era in NBA history, as his incredible shot sent shockwaves across the league. With such an astounding achievement under his belt, it was clear that no other player could replicate this feat anytime soon.
Stephen Curry’s 131-Foot Shot
The next entry on this list of longest shots in NBA history is an impressive feat by Stephen Curry. His 131-foot shot at Oracle Arena was one of the most memorable plays of the season. It was a buzzer beater that gave the Golden State Warriors a thrilling victory.
Curry got the ball just inside half court with just over two seconds remaining. He quickly dribbled to his left before launching an off balance, high arcing shot that swished through the net as time expired. It was a remarkable display of skill and composure under pressure that left the entire stadium in awe.
This shot cemented Curry’s legacy as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history and showed why he is often referred to as “Babyfaced Assassin.” His ability to make even impossible shots seem routine has made him one of the most beloved players in basketball today.
With Curry’s 131-foot shot, he enters into an exclusive group of some of the longest shots ever made. Next up is Allen Iverson’s 133-foot attempt from 2001 which surely will be an interesting tale to tell.
Allen Iverson’s 133-Foot Shot
The record for the longest shot in NBA history is about to be broken. Allen Iverson’s 133-foot shot, which occurred during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers, is one of the most memorable shots of all time. It seemed impossible for him to make such a long range shot, but his incredible determination and skill made it happen.
Iverson utilized his signature crossover movement on Portland’s Damon Stoudamire before launching the ball from beyond half court. His confidence in himself was evident as he sank the unbelievable shot with ease. The entire arena erupted in disbelief at what they had just witnessed; this moment will forever be remembered by basketball fans around the world.
This breathtaking feat propelled Iverson into legendary status, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players to ever grace a basketball court. His signature ‘crossover’ move has since been mimicked by younger generations and his 133-foot shot continues to inspire people across the globe. This amazing accomplishment was only surpassed recently by Gilbert Arenas’ 134-foot shot – an even more impressive achievement that shows just how far basketball has come in recent years.
Gilbert Arenas’ 134-Foot Shot
The tenth longest shot in NBA history belongs to Gilbert Arenas. It was a huge 134-foot shot during a playoff game against the Lakers in 2006. Before this, Allen Iverson had held the record for the longest shot with his 133-footer.
Arenas’ shot was remarkable not only for its length, but also for how it happened. He was running away from two defenders and threw up an off-balance, one-handed heave that arced over everyone and swished through the net. His teammates were stunned and the crowd erupted into cheers.
This incredible shot cemented Gilbert Arenas’ place in basketball lore as one of the greatest long-range shooters of all time. It also showed that when it comes to making deep shots, even a fraction of a foot can mean the difference between a good attempt and an all-time great one. As we’ll see next, Kobe Bryant’s 135-foot shot pushed this record even further.
Kobe Bryant’s 135-Foot Shot
Kobe Bryant’s 135-foot shot was the embodiment of the human spirit – a testament to what we can achieve when we push ourselves beyond our perceived limits. It showed that with enough hard work and dedication, dreams are possible. The shot itself was an incredible display of skill and technique, as Kobe managed to make such a long distance shot with ease. He used his signature fadeaway jump shot to launch the ball over two defenders and into the basket with perfect precision, leaving everyone in awe.
This remarkable feat serves as inspiration for all of us who need a reminder that seemingly impossible goals can be achieved if we put in the effort and never give up. Kobe was able to demonstrate how far talent and determination can take someone, and it is something that will live on forever as one of his greatest achievements.
The story of this iconic 135-foot shot is one that will continue to be told for years to come, serving as a source of motivation for anyone who needs reminding that anything is possible with hard work and commitment. Whether you are trying to reach an ambitious goal or simply striving for greatness in life, Kobe’s 135-foot shot will always be there as a reminder of what can be accomplished when you put your mind to it.
Rodney Stuckey’s 136-Foot Shot
The NBA has seen some amazing long-distance shots, with players pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. But one shot stands out from the rest. This was Rodney Stuckey’s 136-foot shot, the longest in NBA history.
The year was 2009, the game was between Detroit Pistons and Toronto Raptors. With just three seconds left on the clock, Stuckey made an incredible buzzer beater that stunned everyone in attendance. The shot was so impressive that it even earned a standing ovation from both teams!
This incredible feat took place in 2009 and still stands as a record today. It was an amazing moment of basketball history that nobody who witnessed it will ever forget. Who knows? Maybe someday soon we’ll see another player break this record – but until then, Rodney Stuckey’s 136-foot shot will remain a remarkable achievement in basketball lore.
Stephen Curry’s 137-Foot Shot
As a prime example of the longest shots in NBA history, Stephen Curry’s 137-foot shot still stands out. The Golden State Warriors’ guard is renowned for his three-point shooting ability, but he showed off his range with this incredible shot. The game-winning shot came during a regular season match against the Oklahoma City Thunder in February 2016 and was his longest made three-pointer to date. After receiving an outlet pass from Draymond Green, Curry pulled up from behind half court and drained the shot with 0.6 seconds remaining on the clock.
This remarkable feat is evidence of Curry’s confidence and athleticism, as well as his impressive shooting skills. His quick release and accuracy under pressure made it possible for him to sink such an extraordinary shot from that distance. What’s more, it also cemented his reputation as one of the best long-range shooters in NBA history.
TIP: To replicate Stephen Curry’s success, practice shooting threes from far away distances in practice or training sessions. This will help you develop your long-range shooting skills, as well as your confidence when taking shots from beyond the arc.
Ray Allen’s 141-Foot Shot
The fourteenth longest shot in NBA history is Ray Allen’s 141-foot shot. This historic long-range bomb was launched during a game between the Boston Celtics and New York Knicks on February 27, 2014.
The incredible feat can be attributed to Allen’s remarkable accuracy with the basketball. Here are some of his highlights from that day:
- He stunned the crowd with a 3-point shot just before halftime.
- He made three consecutive shots before sinking in this one.
- He managed to take the shot without any interference from defenders.
- He helped secure a double-digit victory for the Celtics that night.
Allen’s impressive 141-foot shot will forever be remembered as one of the greatest accomplishments in NBA history. It was a show of skill and precision that embodied why he earned an All Star nomination twelve times throughout his career. His performance that night inspires current players to strive for greatness on the court, and set their own records as well.
Kobe Bryant’s 143-Foot Shot
Kobe Bryant’s 143-foot shot is like a mythical creature – so far away, yet so close to the heart of basketball fans. This long-distance buzzer beater was as breathtaking as it was miraculous. It felt like time stood still for a moment when the ball left his fingertips, and then erupted into an explosion of joy when it went in.
The shot happened late in the fourth quarter of a match between the Lakers and Trailblazers in March 2016. Kobe had been struggling with injuries all season, but he managed to make one more great play before retiring from the game. His teammates rushed onto the court to embrace him while fans cheered wildly at this incredible feat.
It was a moment that will remain etched in everyone’s memories forever – a reminder of what can be accomplished with passion and determination. Kobe’s shot perfectly encapsulates why we love basketball so much – that even when everything seems impossible, there is always hope.
Conclusion
The NBA is a game full of incredible shots and amazing athletes. Over the years, we’ve seen some truly remarkable long-range shots that will never be forgotten. From Wilt Chamberlain’s 118-foot shot to Stephen Curry’s 137-foot shot, these players have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the sport. However, one player stands above them all: Kobe Bryant. His 143-foot shot not only made an indelible mark on NBA history, but it also serves to remind us that anything is possible with enough effort and determination. As the adage goes: “If you believe it, you can achieve it.” Kobe Bryant certainly proved this to be true with his incredible long range shot!
In conclusion, the longest shots in NBA history are a testament to the skill and athleticism of some of basketball’s greatest players. Whether it was Wilt Chamberlain’s 118-foot shot or Kobe Bryant’s 143-foot shot, these players showed us what can be achieved when hard work meets opportunity. Long range shots like these will continue to inspire generations of young basketball players for many years to come.
